Tuesday, 26 February 2019
By Mark Evans, Product Manager
If you’re a passbook holder, chances are most – if not all – of your banking revolves around the branch.
This means you need to plan ahead for the cash you’ll need, and if you have a large purchase to make, carrying large amounts of cash around can be a worry. It also becomes inconvenient if the branch is closed when you need access to your money unexpectedly.
Consider the alternative: a Visa Debit card linked to your transaction account. You can access your money 24/7, securely shop online and over the phone using your own money and withdraw cash from a large network of ATMs across Australia and worldwide.
But I like my passbook!
You’re not alone – many people like the familiarity of having that little book. But while passbook accounts were previously a popular way to manage your account, banking has changed. Access to your account doesn’t need to be limited to your passbook and branch. You can now access your account online via internet banking, ATMs, and mobile banking apps, as well as using the branch like you do today. This makes it a lot simpler, and more convenient for customers to access funds, shop with ease and manage their money online.
Many of our new transaction accounts offer a whole range of time-saving features and lower fees to help you get the most out of your money. Passbook accounts simply can’t compete with the newer products in terms of features and benefits.
Here are just a few of the features you’ll enjoy if you swap your passbook for a debit card:
1. Convenient withdrawals
With a Visa Debit card, you can visit an ATM any time to withdraw cash 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or get cash out while paying for groceries – no more waiting until the branch opens. Plus you can still use your card to withdraw money over the counter at your local branch if you prefer the face-to-face service.
2. Online shopping is a breeze
Need to order a gift for a family member overseas and have it delivered to them? No problem. Want to do your grocery shop online and have it delivered to your door? Online shopping can offer you access to your money – in real time – from the comfort of your couch.
3. Make purchases over the phone
Forgot an anniversary or significant other’s birthday? With a Visa Debit card, you can call your local florist, order and pay for the flowers over the phone and have them delivered, all without leaving your home.
4. Access your money overseas
With new transaction accounts, accessing your money overseas is much simpler. You can use ATMs abroad to withdraw your money from anywhere in the world where Visa is accepted1 –and that’s pretty much everywhere.
5. Visa payWave at stores
In a mad rush to get your shopping and make it home? Forget fumbling for your purse or coins in the bottom of your bag. Just tap your Visa Debit card over the store’s card reader until you see ‘approved’ on the screen, grab your shopping bags and go. It’s that easy thanks to Visa payWave technology2.
6. Enhanced security
Visa Debit cards are far superior to passbook accounts for security. For one thing, there’s an extra layer of security with a PIN which only you know. Visa Debit cards also offer hassle-free shopping and additional peace of mind with Visa Zero Liability1. You can also block your Visa Debit card if it’s been stolen or compromised with the click of a button via internet banking, or by calling your bank without needing to visit a branch. Plus, with ATMs, there’s no need to carry around lots of cash with you.
Chat to us today about making the switch or read more about the different ways to access your money here.
This article is intended to provide general information of an educational nature only. It does not have regard to your objectives, financial situation or needs and must not be relied upon as financial product advice. Before you act on this information, you should consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances. Information in this article is current as at the date of publication. Information in this article is current as at the date of publication. Applications subject to credit approval and fees and charges are payable. Terms and conditions apply and are available on request.
* ATM transactions are fee free when using a Newcastle Permanent card at Newcastle Permanent ATMs.
1.Visa’s Zero Liability policy covers Australian and New Zealand issued cards and does not apply to ATM transactions, transactions not processed by Visa or certain commercial credit card transactions. The cardholder must notify their issuer promptly of any unauthorised Visa card use. Please consult your issuer for additional details.
2. For more information on Visa payWave, drop into your local branch, visit www.visapaywave.com.au or call 13 19 87. You should consider the Terms and Conditions. Fees and charges may apply.
Newcastle Permanent Visa Debit cards are subject to approval and can be used wherever Visa is accepted worldwide.